Apple CarPlay, an onboard integrated iOS for cars

Apple has finally released its in-car infotainment technology that the company was long working on. This will enable iPhone users to perform a number of tasks all from a car’s dashboard.

Calling it CarPlay, the company claims “it has been designed from the ground up to provide drivers with an incredible experience using their iPhone in the car.”

CarPlay will allow users to make calls, get directions, use iOS apps, listen to music with just a touch – or perhaps, via voice command – thanks to Apple’s personal assistant Siri. The hardware will be first made available in Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo – followed by other carmakers including Nissan, Peugeot, Jaguar Land Rover and BMW, among others.

Apart from Siri, which will be a key player in this game as drivers can easily complete tasks using voice commands – CarPlay has a number of interesting technology features in it. It can also check a user’s calendar and email to remind him about any appointment/meeting while suggesting route directions.

Apple CarPlay will be available as an update to iOS 7 on iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c and iPhone 5 only. Moreover, the technology will be available in select cars shipping in 2014, the company claimed.

With automobile being one of the most promising and evergreen industry, it seems that working with car-giants offer mobile and internet technology companies a significant new opportunity for growth. In another similar news, Google is also working to launch its own version of integrated car technology.

I am Dev, a New Delhi, India, based travel blogger and photographer. Shortly after my first nine to five job, I left that lifestyle behind, and with that everything that didn't fit in my backpack. It has been more than two years now since I've quit my job to travel, and during the process I've learned that this world is too big and interesting to stay at once place.